MONTE VISTA— Longtime and well-known valley resident Kenneth Richard Sanchez, 66, was called home on Feb. 4, 2018 in Monte Vista.  

Kenny was born in Monte Vista on Dec. 10, 1951, the first son of Joseph Demo Sanchez, Jr. and Della Maestas Sanchez. He graduated from Monte Vista High School in 1970 and served his country in the U.S. Army. He attended college at the University of Colorado in Boulder, until the death of his father brought him back to his home in Monte Vista to assist in the care of his younger siblings and mother.  Ken was a fourth-generation contractor, specializing in adobe, drywall, stucco, and painting, and owned and operated J.D. Sanchez Construction. He also worked as a reporter and in all aspects of media processing at KENY-TV in Alamosa for many years.

Ken was a free spirit and marched to the beat of his own drum. He loved riding his Harley about the countryside and communing with nature in all its splendor. Sanchez was in his element being outdoors, taking photographs of the beauty around him, and gaining inspiration from the simplicity of God’s creation. He adored each of his grandchildren, loved them dearly, and was constantly supporting and encouraging them in all their endeavors. Kenny had a way of bringing out the best in people and rarely missed an opportunity to express kindness and empathy toward all, and always had a thoughtful comment.

He is survived by his mother, Della Sanchez of Monte Vista; his children Charles (Sheila) Sanchez of Alamosa; Jodi Sanchez-Sandoval (Matt) of Centennial, Colo. and Dana Sanchez of Denver; his grandchildren: Peyton and Landon Sanchez, Markis Sandoval and Tyler Weaver; his brother and sisters: Loretta Waldroup, Gregory Sanchez, Deborah Sanchez-Toth, Cathy (Paul) Haskell and Connie (John) Schroeder; his nieces and nephews: Gregory Waldroup, Taylor Haskell, Shawn and Matt Toth and Joey Schroeder; as well as his five great nieces and nephews, extended family, in addition to innumerable new and lifelong friends.

Kenny was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Joe Demo Sanchez, Sr., his maternal grandparents, his adored and compassionate father, who instilled the values by which he lived and his best friend Richie Vendola.

A visitation took place from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, followed by a recitation of the, both at the Rogers Family Mortuary in Alamosa. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Feb. 10 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista. Interment with military honors followed the Funeral Mass at the Monte Vista Cemetery. Contributions to help defray funeral costs can be made in his memory through the funeral home offices.

Rogers Family Mortuary of Monte Vista was in care of the arrangements. Online condolences for Kenny’s family may be left by visiting www.RogersFunerals.com.